Helping Preschoolers Build Independence Before Kindergarten
By the Chestermere Playschool
Discover why the Chestermere Playschool is a top choice for families seeking a Chestermere preschool with play-based learning and caring educators.
When we asked some of the local Kindergarten teachers what they hope to see in their students coming into Kindergarten they all said strong independence/self-help skills. In a preschool classroom with 24 kids and two teachers, we ask that all the kids at least TRY to put on their own outdoor gear.
We know that most kids are visual learners, so our best tool is a visual schedule showing students the order they should get ready. Visuals can be made from photos, drawings or printed icons. In our class, we use a site called Lesson Pix (https://lessonpix.com). There is an annual fee, but we find it very useful.
Here’s what we would suggest when using visuals at home:
Take photos or create images of all the steps you want to have in your display.
Hang up the images at your child’s eye level near where they will be getting dressed.
Explain or review the images with your child at a time when everyone is calm and there isn’t a rush to get ready.
Explain why we get dressed in a certain order, ie: if you put your boots on first, you won’t be able to put on your snow pants.
While we encourage getting ready independently, it’s also important that kids know when to ask for help. We encourage the kids to try first and then ask for help if needed.
The most important thing to remember is practice! practice! practice! Another fun way to practice getting ready is to turn pieces of outdoor gear into a race; lay out the gear in order of putting it on and see who can get dressed the fastest!
One-on-one tours are available to meet the teachers and see our location. Visit our website for more information and to register early to secure your spot!
For more information about our program and info about how we keep costs low as a parent-run, not-for-profit playschool participating in the Affordability Grant program, visit our website at www.chestermereplayschool.com
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